Robert K Watrous - how I started down this path of bell toy collecting and research

[BellToyBoy]

Hi, I'm Robert K Watrous

Since I found what was listed as a Watrous bell toy on ebay I've been researching the Watrous Manufacturing Co. and collecting their toys. The search has introduced me to many fine people and surprises. I sent that first toy to my parents as a gift. The mailman left it at the garage door and my parents ran the car over it. The toy I later found out to be by Gong Bell not Watrous. I later would find out I'm not related to the Watrous that started Watrous Manufacturing Co., but I am related to the Watrous that married into the Gong Bell Manufacturing Co. family and went on to create the popular Plaphone 600, designed and patented the wheels that are on that first bell toy I purchased, and later became their president. You just never know where the research will lead. If you have any information, no matter how arcane, to share on the history of bell toys and especially the companies associated with East Hampton Connecticut, please contact me. If you have any toys you'd like to share I'd also love to see them. Last, if I can help you identify toys in your collection or answer any of your questions, please contact me.